The earlier Red Flag Watch for the area has been upgraded to a Red Flag Warning.
Arlington and much of the D.C. region is at high risk of outdoor fires today due to a combination of low humidity, drought conditions and gusty winds, the National Weather Service says.
The warning is in effect until 7 p.m. tonight (Wednesday).
More, below, from NWS.
930 AM EDT Wed Mar 26 2025
…RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL 7 PM EDT THIS EVENING FOR NORTHERN VIRGINIA, CENTRAL MARYLAND, AND WASHINGTON DC…
The National Weather Service in Baltimore MD/Washington has issued a Red Flag Warning for strong winds and low relative humidity, which is in effect until 7 PM EDT this evening.
* TIMING…Until 7 PM EDT this evening.
* WINDS…Northwest 15 to 20 mph with gusts around 25 to 35 mph.
* RELATIVE HUMIDITY…Around 15 to 30 percent, with the lowest values most likely in Virginia.
* IMPACTS…Any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.
* FUEL MOISTURE…Falling to less than 10 percent.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.
Red Flag Warnings have been expanded to include areas just west of I-95 and the lee of the Alleghenies. Wind gusts of 30 to 35 mph, strongest across the north, low humidities, and dry antecedent conditions could lead to the rapid spread of wildfires. #DCwx #MDwx #VAwx #WVwx pic.twitter.com/rBz9Ge7Ur8
— NWS Baltimore-Washington (@NWS_BaltWash) March 26, 2025